Real Money Trading (RMT) allows players to exchange real-world currency for virtual goods, game money, or accounts.
Players use actual money to acquire in-game advantages or items, often bypassing official game systems.
In this post, we explore the contentious topic of RMT in gaming. Whether you’re an experienced player or a newcomer, understanding RMT proves essential in today’s gaming culture.
Let’s break it down and expand your gaming knowledge!
What Is RMT in Gaming?
RMT in gaming refers to trading real-world money for in-game assets, such as rare items, currency, or even fully leveled accounts.
This practice is common in various game genres, from RPGs to MMOs.
Here’s how it typically works:
- A player has a valuable in-game item or a large virtual currency.
- Another player desires the item but doesn’t want to invest the time to earn it in the game.
- The first player sells the item or currency to the second player in exchange for real money.
This process can operate like a black market for digital goods. Some games allow this through official stores, while others restrict it, treating it as violating the game’s rules.
RMT Explained in Gaming
RMT, or “Real Money Trading,” involves exchanging real currency for in-game assets like items, currency, or accounts, which differs from trading traditional financial assets such as stocks or cryptocurrency.
Dangers Linked to RMT
While RMT might seem like an easy way to advance in a game, it poses several serious threats:
- Account Suspension: Numerous games forbid RMT transactions. If caught, you risk having your account banned along with all your progress.
- Fraud: Since RMT typically occurs outside official game channels, there’s a high chance of encountering scams. You might hand over money and receive no goods in return.
- Compromised Payment Methods: Certain RMT operations involve using stolen credit card details, which could unknowingly involve you in fraudulent activities.
- Game Economy Instability: RMT can disrupt the game’s virtual economy, making it harder for non-paying players to compete.
- Lack of Achievement: Buying your way through the game may eliminate the satisfaction of earning progress via gameplay.
- Malicious Software: Using third-party services for RMT can open the door to malicious programs that damage your computer.
- Over-Spending: The ease of acquiring in-game benefits could lead to compulsive spending habits and addiction to the game.
Which Games Support RMT?
The policies on RMT differ significantly between games and developers. Here’s a summary:
| Category | Games | Description |
| Games with Approved RMT | Diablo III, Second Life, EVE Online | 1) Previously featured a marketplace for real-money transactions (now closed) |
| 2) Supports the buying and selling of virtual currency (Linden Dollars) | ||
| 3) PLEX is available for exchange within the game | ||
| Games with Controlled RMT | World of Warcraft, Guild Wars 2 | 1) Players can buy tokens and exchange them for in-game rewards. |
| 2) Allows players to acquire items (gems) and trade them for in-game currency. | ||
| Games that Restrict RMT | Overwatch, League of Legends, and many MMORPGs | Trading real money for in-game goods is only allowed through official systems |
| Games with Unclear RMT Rules | Counter-Strike 2, Team Fortress 2 | 1) Skin trading exists in an uncertain legal zone |
| 2) Hat trading operates under similar unclear rules |
Even if a game doesn’t officially allow RMT, it may still take place through unofficial means. Always review the game’s terms of service to understand how they address RMT.
Now that you’re familiar with RMT, you can make more informed decisions in your gaming experience.
Whether you engage with it or avoid it, knowing what RMT is helps you navigate the gaming world.
Remember, your skill and enjoyment are still essential in gaming.
Keep improving and have fun!